Corfu: Jet-Setters’ Favorite

A veritable galaxy of stars and celebs have visited Corfu and fallen in love with it, returning time and again.

The rich and famous have always loved Corfu. After all, the Duke of Edinburgh was born on the island, at Mon Repos, the stately home built in 1824 for the British High Commissioner, Sir Frederick Adam. Arguably its most famous past resident, the Empress Elisabeth of Austria built Achilleion Palace in 1890 as a refuge after the tragic loss of her only son, Crown Prince Rudolf. This royal connection has continued with many members of Europe’s royal families, including the British royal family, visiting the island on numerous occasions.

Be they old money or self-made, those who enjoy wealth and fame flock to Corfu every year, most of them to the expensive, exclusive northeast side of the island – “Kensington-on-Sea,” as the area of Kassiopi has become affectionately known. At this haven for businessmen, politicians, media moguls, art dealers and lawyers, the Rothschild family are perhaps the most famous residents while Lord Sainsbury, the Duke of Westminster, Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, and Roman Abramovich also visit regularly. With views of the deep blue Ionian Sea and the mountains of Albania in the distance, socializing largely takes place behind villa walls or onboard mega-yachts. Another favorite pastime is lunch at any one of the three tavernas at the Bay of Agni, where you’re very likely to spot members of one of Europe’s richest and powerful families – perhaps a Berlusconi, or a member of the Agnelli family dining on chargrilled swordfish or a tasty traditional sofrito.